Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 7th of May.
Good morning, West Des Moines.
FuseDSM will host the Quarterly Luncheon on AI on the Edge: Protecting Your Business from Invisible Threats on June 5 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., offering lunch, networking, and a presentation by Edgar Ortiz of CMIT Solutions of Des Moines—he will outline how unchecked artificial intelligence poses risks including local cyber breach cases and a UnitedHealth incident. Attendees will gain insights to help protect their businesses from emerging threats.
The Chill on the Hill concert series will feature Recoil at Copper Creek Lake Park on June 13 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.—the event is for attendees 21 and older and includes a food truck along with sponsorship from Elder Corporation, Fareway, and NuCara Pharmacy.
Chill on the Hill featuring After Shock will take place on June 6 at 6:00 p.m. at Copper Creek Lake Park for ages 21+ with a food truck on site—sponsors include Elder Corporation, Bowlero, Heartland Roofing, Siding, and Solar, and Golf Cars of Iowa will handle the concession zone.
Iowa Pork Producers are accepting nominations for the Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin contest until the end of May, and Kelsey Sutter said judges will visit the top 40 restaurants over the summer and announce the winner in October—ensuring a fair chance for every district in Iowa.
Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley said he supports work requirements for Medicaid recipients who can work and added that many could meet the rule with as few as 20 hours a week — through work, school or volunteering— while not applying to disabled people, pregnant women or families with children under 6. He also noted that House budget proposals call for cutting $800 billion in public health insurance spending, a move that could save the government tens of billions.
Polk County Attorney Kimberly Graham announced Tuesday morning that she was running for reelection next year—she noted her office helped more people get valid driver’s licenses and held others accountable—and said she would work to further improve the justice system if reelected.
Des Moines Regional Transit Authority released survey results showing nearly 1,400 respondents gave feedback on planned DART service changes, with 27% strongly preferring more frequent stops in a smaller coverage area and 11% strongly preferring wider coverage.
The agency will hold another survey later in the summer to collect more public input.
Homeward and the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines unveiled a five-year plan to tackle homelessness in Polk County based on research showing over 3,000 people experienced homelessness in 2024 — Shelby Ridley and local officials stressed the plan will expand shelter functions and help move individuals into stable housing — while urging more business support for its success.
Breakfast with Ricky Stanzi
7-9 a.m. — The Hall DSM — $20 at the door — Enjoy breakfast and fellowship while hearing Ricky Stanzi's inspirational testimony.
Architecture on the Move: Iowa Architectural Foundation Tours
5:30-7 p.m. — Capital Square — Free entry — Discover downtown Des Moines' architectural marvels on a guided sidewalk tour.
Mary's Meals 5K Walk/Run
9 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Iowa Women of Achievement Bridge — Fundraising encouraged — Participate in the annual Race to Feed Kids and help provide meals for children in need.
& Juliet (Touring)
& Juliet — 1-5 p.m. — Des Moines Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — A vibrant musical featuring the hits of Britney Spears, The Backstreet Boys, and The Weeknd.
I Spy: Iowa Wildflowers
— May 12 – 24 — Des Moines Public Library — Free entry — Discover the beauty of Iowa wildflowers and embark on an outdoor adventure to spot them.
Beyond Birth: Baby's First Year Support Group
9:30-11 a.m. — Downtown Des Moines Public Library — Free entry — Connect with other new parents in a supportive environment for postpartum discussions.
Summer Nights at Karl Kustoms
5-7 p.m. — Karl Kustoms — Free entry — Enjoy a casual evening with food, fun, and stunning cars.
Liz Nead – The Six Voices Luncheon
11 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Rollins Mansion — $50 — Experience interactive insights from Emmy-winning speaker Liz Nead on communication and self-understanding.
First Friday at Mainframe Art Studios
5-8 p.m. — Mainframe Studios — Free entry — Explore creative workspaces and support local artists at this themed open house event.
Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show
6-9 p.m. — Embassy Suites by Hilton Des Moines Downtown — $67.95 + taxes & fees — Experience a hilarious interactive murder mystery dinner show while enjoying a fantastic meal.
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